With each trip, I seem to take less, and am much happier that way. I have learned to get everything into a 22" rolling bag, plus a carry-on bag for the plane (with reading material, sweater, guide books and maps, extra shoes, etc.) I wish I could get by with just the suitcase and shoulder bag, but I can't seem to do without the carry-on.
When doing any train travel, it really makes a difference how heavy your stuff is!

After 3 back surgeries and battling my 22" carryon on the trains and streets of London last May, I said never again! I just bought a 21" LIGHTWEIGHT (under 6 lbs) wheeled backpack by Ricardo for $50 at Kohl's.

For my 2 week trip to Germany and Austria next May, I will pack/wear the following:

3 Pair slacks
2 short and 2 long sleeve tees
1 lightweight sweater
4 pr microfiber undies + 2 bras
2 pr walking shoes (1 pr definitely my Merrell's) + 3 pr socks
Fleece jacket
London Fog Raincoat + travel umbrella
Toiletries + makeup
Clothes washing liquid + 4 inflatable hangers
Maps, guides, etc.

All of this easily fits into my wheeled backpack. I will carry a small bag on the plane with my medications, water, snacks, tickets, etc. (My husband will be carrying all his camera gear in his carry on bag.)

I am just not physically able to haul 30 or 40 lbs of stuff around Europe anymore and have decided that I don't need to.

Ok-here's what I've planned for France(x 3 weeks) in one 22 inch carry-on(will check) and a large canvas tote(carry-on)

2 pairs black rayon pants
2 pairs black jeans
5 long sleeve cotton shirts
2 cashmere sweaters
1 dressy linen set
3 pairs of shoes(I'll wear one)
trouser socks/stockings(2 pairs)
nightgown
6 pairs of socks
1 pashima shawl
1 short gabardine coat(which I'll wear on the plane)

We've done laundry before while travelling and some of our hotels will have laundry service.

I hope to have extra room in the canvas tote for purchases.

FainaAgain -

My extra pair of underwear is, indeed, a reflection of some sort of neuroses I have. I never use the extra pair.

On the other hand, it doesn't bother me at all to only have two bras on a five-day trip. I know it's no harder to wash a pair of underwear than it is to wash a bra. Just one of my idiosyncrasies.

good pair of walking shoes that can carry you either on a tour or to a restaurant. one long-ish black knit skirt with a cardigan sweater; 1-2 mock turtlenecks in silk - easy to layer; a couple of pairs of khaki's.